Elba 4-star RB Alvin Henderson commits to Penn State over Auburn, 2 others

Four-star Elba running back Alvin Henderson is headed to the Big 10.

The 5-foot-10, 198-pound rising senior committed to Penn State on Thursday at his school. Henderson chose the Nittany Lions over a host of contenders, including finalists Auburn, Miami and Florida State.

Henderson is the state’s second-ranked running back in the Class of 2025 behind only Carver-Montgomery’s Anthony Rogers. The 247 composite rankings have Henderson as the No. 10 overall senior prospect in the state.

“The main thing I like about Penn State is how they develop the running backs,” he said. “I feel like that is a better place for me to go being from Alabama and to try something new. I’m looking forward to continuing my career in college and dominating on the field as I did in high school.”

Henderson is the two-time reigning Class 1A Back of the Year, according to the Alabama Sports Writers Association. In 2023, he rushed for 3,523 yards and 61 touchdowns on 225 carries – an average of 15.7 yards per carry and 251 yards per game. His 61 touchdowns are a single-season AHSAA record.

In his sophomore season, Henderson rushed for 2,636 yards and 46 touchdowns on 195 carries – an average of 13.5 yards per carry and 219 yards per game.

With his decision, half of the top 10 seniors in the state (per 247) have already committed. Henderson joins No. 1 Parker DB Na’eem Offord (Ohio State), No. 5 Southside-Selma WR Derick Smith (Alabama), No. 7 Rogers (Alabama) and No. 9 Saraland QB KJ Lacey (Texas) as early commits.

He is the third top 20 prospect to commit this week, joining Saraland WR Dillon Alfred (Ole Miss) and Williamson OL Carde Smith (Auburn).